WINNING APRICOT BARS

Winning Apricot Bars image

This recipe is down-home baking at its best, and it really represents all regions of the country. It's won blue ribbons at county fairs and cookie contests in several states! Easy to make, it's perfect for potluck suppers, bake sales, lunchboxes or just plain snacking.-Jill Moritz, Irvine, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 45m

Yield 2 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1-1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 jar (10 to 12 ounces) apricot preserves

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla. In a small bowl, whisk flour and baking powder; gradually add to creamed mixture, mixing well. Fold in coconut and walnuts., Press two-thirds of dough onto the bottom of a greased 13x9-in. baking pan. Spread with preserves; crumble remaining dough over preserves. Bake 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 195 calories, Fat 10g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 23mg cholesterol, Sodium 72mg sodium, Carbohydrate 27g carbohydrate (16g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 2g protein.